CUT–Take Two!

During the holiday season, I took time out to take in a movie. I treated myself to “Second Act.” starring Jennifer Lopez. The story of a woman who plays a different version of herself to prove to others that she was enough.

The walk to dinner offered plenty of time to reflect on my own movie reel. I asked myself, how many times have I led people to believe I was someone I wasn’t? For the sake of achieving a goal or assimilate into an environment. When did I last create a persona to fit another person’s version of me? Most importantly, why did I feel the need to do it and why did I think it’s okay?

For several years of marriage, I conformed to being the woman my husband wanted me to be. Or the wife I thought he wanted. I believed his happiness was my responsibility. I created a version of me to fit expectations in the relationship. The issues began when pieces of the real me began to show. You see, truth always wins. No matter how much we try to cover it up. The reveal is imminent. We can’t hide who we are forever. Why would we want to….

The journey to find my true self hasn’t ended. I doubt it ever will. I’ve learned so much about myself during this growth process. I’m grateful for every part of life experience, good and bad.

My story is ongoing like many of yours. I admit, for a long time, I struggled to accept that I am enough. I’ve made some bad choices. Questionable decisions that weren’t representative of my best work. Never really understanding the effect these blunders would have on the future. Trusting the wrong people. Giving it all to those not deserving of everything I had to offer. Denying myself of opportunities for fear of failure or rocking the boat.

Looking at the mirror of truth is one of the most difficult things we’ll ever do. We worry so much about what others think of us, when the only opinion that truly matters is our own. I shortchanged myself because I didn’t think I was worthy of more. How many of you are guilty of the same?

Most of us may relate to the narrative behind “Second Act.” We invest time and energy covering the cracks until reaching a breaking point. When you learn to accept and embrace who you are is the moment you find your essence. Owning your authenticity and trusting you’re enough is powerful. This can be the turning point when true greatness starts its unveiling. Daring you to free yourself of all judgment and expand your mind to rise up to the woman you’re meant to be.

If not already, I hope you believe that we all have a take two in us. Post it in the mirror, Write it in your journal. Say it then repeat “I love me. I am enough. I am powerful beyond measure. I am unstoppable.” As long as you wake up tomorrow. You have a second chance. Don’t waste it.

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